HR0796 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0796 LRB104 21382 ECR 36332 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), is a serious, complex, and chronic disease that affects multiple body systems, including the neurological, immune, and metabolic systems; and

WHEREAS, ME affects up to nine million Americans, including over 100,000 Illinoisans, and is characterized by symptoms such as post-exertional malaise, debilitating fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and immune and autonomic nervous system dysregulation that substantially limit an individual's ability to carry out ordinary daily activities; and

WHEREAS, Approximately 25% of individuals affected by ME are housebound or bed-bound, and an estimated 75% are unable to sustain employment or education due to the severity of their illness; almost all people with ME experience profound limitations in performing usual daily activities; and

WHEREAS, Individuals living with ME often experience a significant decline in quality of life and may face challenges accessing timely diagnosis, appropriate medical care, workplace accommodations, and social support; and

WHEREAS, ME remains widely under-recognized and misunderstood with up to 91% of people with ME remaining undiagnosed, and even those with the diagnosis often face limited treatment options and inadequate systemic supports, thereby jeopardizing the safety, well-being, and economic security of affected individuals and their families; and

WHEREAS, Due to limited public awareness and lingering misconceptions about the nature and severity of ME, many patients experience stigma, misunderstanding, and delays in care; and

WHEREAS, The prevalence of ME has increased significantly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, with up to half of individuals affected by Long COVID meeting diagnostic criteria for ME; and

WHEREAS, ME affects an estimated 17 to 24 million people worldwide, making it one of the most widespread yet least understood chronic illnesses, underscoring the urgent need for expanded research, medical education, and public awareness; and

WHEREAS, Raising awareness of ME within Illinois promotes understanding, research investment, and better health outcomes for the thousands of people affected; and

WHEREAS, Increased awareness and education about ME among the public, health care providers, educators, employers, and policymakers are essential to improving outcomes for those affected and supporting ongoing research efforts; and

WHEREAS, May 12 is internationally recognized as ME Awareness Day, honoring the strength and resilience of the ME community and highlighting the need for increased understanding, research investment, and comprehensive systems of care and support; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare May 12, 2026 as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Awareness Day in the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we encourage increased public education and awareness efforts regarding Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), support for individuals and families affected by the disease, and continued attention to research and health care initiatives aimed at improving diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for those living with ME.